Did you know that your late night snacking habit might create dental problems for you? Yes, that and not brushing at night, especially while your saliva levels are down, leaves bacteria and plaque to cause destruction to your teeth during the night, while you are asleep. This is because, salivary flow during sleep is reduced and any bacterial metabolites produced from the food you eat late will not be cleared as effectively and cause dental problems. Night time is also an important period of rest and recovery for your teeth, as they will demineralise from the wear and tear of the day. Even after you brush, bacterial plaques regrow. Not brushing at all before bed allows these bacterial plaques to ensure colonization of acid producing bacteria. Snacking during wee hours of the morning or late at night is ok, especially if you are up late. However, what is important is to choose the type of snacks that will cause least harm to your teeth and to always remember to brush, no matter what! When the urge for late night snacks strikes, opt for healthier foods and avoid those foods that can cause you dental problems.
Given below is a list of teeth-friendly snacks you can choose from:

• Plain popcorn
• Plain yoghurt, or yoghurt mixed with unsweetened fruit puree
• Hard-boiled eggs
• Cheese
• Savoury sandwiches
• Raw or cooked vegetables
• Homemade soup

Here is a list of what you must avoid:

• Grapefruit juice
• Fruit yoghurt
• Sparkling water
• Apples
• Citrus fruit
• Chewy candy
• Soda
• Carbonated Drinks

After you have consumed a snack, it is a must to brush well. Begin with taking a small amount of toothpaste onto your toothbrush. Then, set your bristles at the gum line at a 45-degree angle. Gently brush with a short, vertical or circular motion. Don't brush across your teeth. Brushing just a few teeth at a time, work your way around your mouth in a cycle. Divide your mouth into quadrants: top left, top right, bottom left, and bottom right. Spend 30 seconds on each quadrant and brush for a full 2 minutes to avoid dental problems. You must always brush your molars as well as the inner surfaces of your teeth. End your brushings session with brushing your tongue gently and rinsing your mouth with water. Always remember to use India’s best toothpaste - Meswak, to ensure you do not have any dental problems. Maintain proper oral hygiene and choose the right toothpaste to keep all dental problems away & ensure proper dental care.